Good question. I'm not sure on that. The "sculptors" set should hold up to a mallet. These "power handle" ones might. The normal flex cut chisels WONT. The blade will break off at the handle. The blade is much skinnier right where it goes into the handle. I've broken two #3 gouges so far. I made my own handle for the part that snapped off and that one never broke again.

I've broken 2 from the Flexcut sculptors set, and had no issues with getting replacements. Their CS is quick and helpful. However - I do feel the need to upgrade. Someday I'll get the set that Buzzy showed!

Flexcut website says the power handles will stand "light mallet work". I imagine that is open to interpretation. They gotta be way better than the junk I have now. Just gotta learn which one to use where.

I lot will depend on what type of wood you are carving. If you are carving seasoned hardwood, your chisels and mallet will both take a pounding. (not to mention your shoulder). tools designed for "light mallet work" are not going to hold up. As Aloha mentioned, better learn to sharpen your tools. That helps.